March 30, 2011 - Week 2 of Transfer 10
Hello family!
This week has been tiring yet great. I love Elder Atwood, I am so glad we are companions. We have basically tore everything down and rebuilt everything this past week. We started with the barn. It has been a temporary housing location for the mission for the past few years. So whenever a companionship is looking for a new place to live in the stakes they live at the "barn" for a few weeks till a new place is found. And because of that, the place was a disaster. We moved things around, threw out five huge garbage bags and a couple boxes of junk. It took some of our mornings before studies and free time at night but after sometime it now looks like the celestial room in the temple! That was step one. Cleanse the inner vessel before the outer vessel right!
After that step we took a look at our area books. They were a disaster and so we completely redid them. It took forever and was painful working on them but it is was worth it. We are starting to feel organized now and have a better idea of whats going on. It is hard to describe how disorganized everything was. There was no zone book, no records of the zone or anything! Elder Atwood went from being our district leader in draper temple zone to a zone leader in this zone and was here for one transfer with Elder Ame's (who's the new assistant). So he just rode it out with Elder Ame's but now we are stepping it up.
Do you remember telling me about Steven Harper from our stake who got called to our mission, well he is in our zone! That's three Canadians. He is being trained by Elder Helvig and doing good. We have alot to work on with our zone, things are pretty bad. The district leaders aren't stepping up and there are times where we end up having to do their calling. District Leaders show up to DLC (district leader council) without their numbers or anything to report! Its crazy but give it some time.
Things are starting to pick up in our area. We have had a few miracles happen this past week. We picked up a new investigator on Monday and should be picking up two more this Thursday. We are speaking in basically every ward, looking at two talks a week. This past Sunday we spoke in front of a general authority it was pretty scary. He was way nice though, Elder Mervyn B. Arnold from the first quorum of the seventy, he spoke at October conference. Gave the talk about the cows and the fence. He sat right behind us as we spoke... After the sacrament meeting we were meeting people in the congregation and he came up to us and threw his arm around us and said, "Elders I wish you could serve in my home ward", then shook our hands and took off.
On Sunday we had dinner with a family who invited there less active daughter and her boyfriend, who is not a member. During the message we shared their daughter was completely involved and sharing her testimony! Before we left we had a moment in the kitchen with her boyfriend and asked if would like to meet with us, he gave us a solid no but in a very nice way. We left the house but I forgot my camera there so we came back in an hour, after a few visits, to pick it up. We walked in the door and the boyfriend answered and said, "can we meet this Thursday?" Elder Atwood and I were completely confused because he just told us no, but we whipped out our planners and set up an appointment. After we left the family asked if he would like to meet with us and he said yes! It just proves the fact that when members invite missionary work goes forward. Two random people in suits with name tags means nothing but when a friend invites it means the world! So we will be meeting with him tomorrow!
That is basically our week... I forgot to mention Monday morning we got in an accident. We were coming back from the stake center at 7:15 am, after working out, and a lady rear ended us pretty good. The car is in the auto body shop and we are driving a truck for the time being. It turns out she is a active member in one of our stakes and we are teaching her brother in law, who is polygamist! So we had a good laugh but she felt terrible. We were OK other than some stiff necks the next day. Well that's that. The next couple of months should be great with Elder Atwood I am excited. Thanks for fasting for us on Sunday! We actually had some several great things happen that day. I am crazy excited for conference! I am going to the Priesthood session, I can't believe I will get to go 3 out of 4 times on my mission, I am truly grateful. I hope all goes well at home this next week, WATCH CONFERENCE, and keep going with the work outs. I am impressed!
Love your boy, Elder Pizzey
PS sorry if this email wasn't the greatest or didn't make sense. I wrote it between games while playing in a basketball tournament at the Taylorsville Institute.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Thursday, March 24, 2011
March 23, 2011
March 23, 2011 - Week 1 of Transfer 10 (total of 17 CRAZY!)
There is so much to update you on! Yet I basically forget all of it! Usually each week I make a list in my planner on the following Pday of stories or things I would like to share with you. This week was just to intense. But let me start I have a few in mind.
I was on an exchange (once again) and we were driving around an apartment complex looking for the right building but having a hard time finding it. I saw this guy walking and had the weird feeling talk to this guy. I am not being weird, I truly felt it. So I pulled over rolled down the passenger window and leaned over to talk to him. Elder Torres (DL) was confused. I asked him if he knew where Alex lived, lol I had no clue what to say so I just made it up! Well it turns out he did not know where Alex lived but his response was as follows, "I have no clue but I was actually looking for missionaries, I want to get baptized." It turns out he was meeting with missionaires in southern Utah and just moved up here. So that was quite the experience, we were out of our area (working in the Uni Stake) so we called up the missionaries and passed the information over to them.
By far the greatest experiences of the week were the two baptisms! Adriana Salazar and Sean Carnely, both of them in the same night. It is hard to describe these baptisms, I wish you could attend one. Sean is the man. He has some good friends who are preparing to go on missions and he asked them to speak. They did a great job and you can truly tell they have experienced the Atonement in their lives and understand it. Sean's family attended his baptism and his little brother actually came to one of our lessons! I love when your investigators are truly converted and want to share the gospel. Sean shared his testimony at his baptism and at church, infront of a huge singles ward! We are pushing a mission and I think he will go.
Adriana's baptism was just as good. Elder Dick and I switched up and tried something different while she was changing, during the wait. We opened it up to SHORT testimonies and it worked out really good. It kept people from talking and getting loud which usually happens, causing the spirit to leave! Adriana asked to share her testimony at the end of the service before the Bishop welcomed her to the ward. She got up there with her spanish Book of Mormon and preached a beautiful sermon! Her testimony lies completely in the power of the Book of Mormon and prayer. It was so spiritual to hear her experiences while reading and praying, she understands personal revelation. I have to add though she was quite bold! Her family who were there, they haven't been to supportive of her decison, actually they have given her a hard time. I wish you could have heard her proclaim the restored gospel!
Then the next morning at 7am President Miller, Bescerra and Bishop, our mission presidency, came to our Draper Utah Stake to giving a training to all the ward councils! I love hearing them speak. The training was to be focused on the ward mission process but once President realized we have had 10 baptisms in that Stake and in this year alone he changed his training slightly. We wished he wouldn't have because we still have only recieved one referral from the ward mission process but it will come. It was a great opportunity for the leadership of the wards to meet the mission presidency and feel of their spirit. Now they know them and trust them. It was really cool President Miller had us stand up there at the front and he asked, "How many know E. Dick and E. Pizzey?" and almost every hand went up! We have really worked hard together in that Stake. The area has completely flipped around, I think in total the Stake had 6 baptisms last year and now it is exploding!
TIME IS RUNNING OUT! So after the meeting we met with the Stake presidency, mission presidency and our high councilman over missionary work. After the meeting President Miller asked if there was anything he could do to help? And Bro. Felts (the worlds greatest high councilman) quickly raised his hand and said, "Please don't move these two Elders! Things are going great here and lets just keep them that way. Please don't transfer them!" President Miller laughed and said he will take his advice if the Lord confirms it... Right after the meeting President Miller took us aside and talked to us in a room for a little bit. He told me that I was being transfered to another zone leader area but one that is not having success and teaching nobody. He told me I am to do the exact same thing I have done here with Elder Dick, a little scary.
So since we are in a huge rush I must leave! But it happened I got transfered! I am serving in the South Jordan River and Country Park Stakes, which is in the Riverton zone. Elder Atwood (who I love) is my companion. He is from Jaffery, British Columbia! My fifth Canadain companion! It is insane, I am so blessed! I love it. We mesh 100% and both love basketball. We actually played each other in highschool at the Cardston tournament. Elder Atwood goes home in two transfers and asked President if we could be companions beacuse he thought we would work hard together. This area is going to flip around just give us a few weeks. Ok I must go! Let me add we live in a barn! All to ourselve, a windmill powers our barn (it is finished upstairs though lol). I am way excited even though it is going to be hard going from teaching 20-25 lessons a week to 3-5 lessons a week. Elder Atwood is bold and business, man I love the friends you make on a mission. I can't wait for you guys to meet them! I must go!
Love your son, Elder Pizzey!
There is so much to update you on! Yet I basically forget all of it! Usually each week I make a list in my planner on the following Pday of stories or things I would like to share with you. This week was just to intense. But let me start I have a few in mind.
I was on an exchange (once again) and we were driving around an apartment complex looking for the right building but having a hard time finding it. I saw this guy walking and had the weird feeling talk to this guy. I am not being weird, I truly felt it. So I pulled over rolled down the passenger window and leaned over to talk to him. Elder Torres (DL) was confused. I asked him if he knew where Alex lived, lol I had no clue what to say so I just made it up! Well it turns out he did not know where Alex lived but his response was as follows, "I have no clue but I was actually looking for missionaries, I want to get baptized." It turns out he was meeting with missionaires in southern Utah and just moved up here. So that was quite the experience, we were out of our area (working in the Uni Stake) so we called up the missionaries and passed the information over to them.
By far the greatest experiences of the week were the two baptisms! Adriana Salazar and Sean Carnely, both of them in the same night. It is hard to describe these baptisms, I wish you could attend one. Sean is the man. He has some good friends who are preparing to go on missions and he asked them to speak. They did a great job and you can truly tell they have experienced the Atonement in their lives and understand it. Sean's family attended his baptism and his little brother actually came to one of our lessons! I love when your investigators are truly converted and want to share the gospel. Sean shared his testimony at his baptism and at church, infront of a huge singles ward! We are pushing a mission and I think he will go.
Adriana's baptism was just as good. Elder Dick and I switched up and tried something different while she was changing, during the wait. We opened it up to SHORT testimonies and it worked out really good. It kept people from talking and getting loud which usually happens, causing the spirit to leave! Adriana asked to share her testimony at the end of the service before the Bishop welcomed her to the ward. She got up there with her spanish Book of Mormon and preached a beautiful sermon! Her testimony lies completely in the power of the Book of Mormon and prayer. It was so spiritual to hear her experiences while reading and praying, she understands personal revelation. I have to add though she was quite bold! Her family who were there, they haven't been to supportive of her decison, actually they have given her a hard time. I wish you could have heard her proclaim the restored gospel!
Then the next morning at 7am President Miller, Bescerra and Bishop, our mission presidency, came to our Draper Utah Stake to giving a training to all the ward councils! I love hearing them speak. The training was to be focused on the ward mission process but once President realized we have had 10 baptisms in that Stake and in this year alone he changed his training slightly. We wished he wouldn't have because we still have only recieved one referral from the ward mission process but it will come. It was a great opportunity for the leadership of the wards to meet the mission presidency and feel of their spirit. Now they know them and trust them. It was really cool President Miller had us stand up there at the front and he asked, "How many know E. Dick and E. Pizzey?" and almost every hand went up! We have really worked hard together in that Stake. The area has completely flipped around, I think in total the Stake had 6 baptisms last year and now it is exploding!
TIME IS RUNNING OUT! So after the meeting we met with the Stake presidency, mission presidency and our high councilman over missionary work. After the meeting President Miller asked if there was anything he could do to help? And Bro. Felts (the worlds greatest high councilman) quickly raised his hand and said, "Please don't move these two Elders! Things are going great here and lets just keep them that way. Please don't transfer them!" President Miller laughed and said he will take his advice if the Lord confirms it... Right after the meeting President Miller took us aside and talked to us in a room for a little bit. He told me that I was being transfered to another zone leader area but one that is not having success and teaching nobody. He told me I am to do the exact same thing I have done here with Elder Dick, a little scary.
So since we are in a huge rush I must leave! But it happened I got transfered! I am serving in the South Jordan River and Country Park Stakes, which is in the Riverton zone. Elder Atwood (who I love) is my companion. He is from Jaffery, British Columbia! My fifth Canadain companion! It is insane, I am so blessed! I love it. We mesh 100% and both love basketball. We actually played each other in highschool at the Cardston tournament. Elder Atwood goes home in two transfers and asked President if we could be companions beacuse he thought we would work hard together. This area is going to flip around just give us a few weeks. Ok I must go! Let me add we live in a barn! All to ourselve, a windmill powers our barn (it is finished upstairs though lol). I am way excited even though it is going to be hard going from teaching 20-25 lessons a week to 3-5 lessons a week. Elder Atwood is bold and business, man I love the friends you make on a mission. I can't wait for you guys to meet them! I must go!
Love your son, Elder Pizzey!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
March 16, 2011
March 16, 2011 - Week 6 of Transfer 9
Howdie Folks!
Thank you for the emails! I really enjoyed both of them this week, as with every week. There is alot to share this week so let me just jump into it!
Last Thursday night Elder Dick and I get home at 9:00 PM and start planning for the following day. Friday, the next day, we were on an exchange and I was staying in the area so I was mainly planning by myself. We had a few open hours of the day and I haven't tracted for a few weeks (too busy) so I thought it would be a good idea to get out there and knock on some doors. Plus I like to do it and thought it would be a good idea to do some with this certain Elder I would be with. So I picked 2:30 and only for one hour, real short. I looked at our huge map on the wall and felt so inspired to throw my finger at the Draper Oaks Apartments (only 20 units or so) that we have never attempted. Well the following day E. Costa and I pulled up at 2:25 perfectly on time, said a prayer before we hopped out of the car and off we went. Here is the miracle. On the fourth door a lady opens the door and asks us, "Did my dad send you here?" The conversation went on and it turns out her fiance just moved in and she would be moving in with him in two weeks, after their wedding. She told me that she has been wanting to come back to church and her husband, who isn't a member, wants to get baptized! I was in shock... didn't even know what to say. Of course I gathered myself together pulled out my planner! I was truly guided by the spirit while planning and the Lord placed her in our path. Everything was to perfect to be luck!
On the weekend Elder Dick and I had a lesson with Sean Carnley. I love Sean, he is like a Darren Gardner with a mix of Austin Fairbanks, my two favorites. I will be coming back to snowboard with him for sure. Anyways our lesson! I can't describe it, so spiritual. We started to teach about the Plan of Salvation and we were using 2 Nephi 2 to help teach the Fall of Adam and Eve. We got into a great discussion and ended up "unfolding" 2 Nephi 2 to him! My favorite chapter. The spirit was very present as the discussion bounced around this chapter. It later moved into the joy that comes with sharing the gospel. We talked about our missions, he expressed a desire to serve a mission! Everyone in that lesson bore down in pure testimony, all of us! Sean (21 yrs old), Taylor (future missionary, so prepared), Luke (legit RM), Elder Dick and I. I am grateful for experiences like this, to work with so many people I love. Sean is getting baptized this Saturday at 6:00, he's so solid.
We had a Zone Leader Council this past Monday that was great, by the far the best one yet (they are from 9am-3pm... long). Stephen B. Allen just chastised our mission so we are working on some changes to become 100% obedient to the MHB (missionary handbook). Due to that I can't accept anymore visits from family or friends, sadly but that's OK less than a year left. Our two assistants right now are great, I love them. Elder Brand has been in there for ever and we need him! I think President is scared to let go of him, I would be too. Dad you should try to hire him, genius. Elder Bertilinio is just on it and I completely relate to him. Dream companion lol. At 1:00 they gave all the ZL companionship's a slip of paper with an address of a strip mall. We had one hour to get five referrals and it was so fun, such a race. They helped us understand the importance of goals and holding our self accountable to those goals. Lots of other things discussed but it was just great.
Once again some more revelation that happened during planning. Monday night Elder Dick and I planned to go by this girl Kara who we have been trying to get a hold of forever! She is less active but been thinking about coming back to church. We slowly gave up on her because we could never get a hold of her but Monday night we decided to put her down for 8:30, hoping she would be home. That time comes around and we roll by her house. For the first time ever shes home and she has a friend over from work. Long story short they invited us in (don't worry male home too) and we sit down and chatted for a few minutes. Kara's friend Sarah was really quiet and closed at first but eventually she opened up. She met with missionaries for six months almost a year ago and got really close to baptism. She broke up with her boyfriend, who was LDS, and things just fell apart. It turned into the greatest lesson of the week! Sarah is so honest with herself. She knows everything is true and misses it! Her words. She misses feeling close to God, misses praying and isn't pleased with her lifestyle at the time. She agreed it was time to change and start preparing for baptism! We were in shock, and never expected to meet Kara, meanwhile Sarah! The Lord knew our plans and placed them in our path. Planning is something I am slowly getting better and better at on my mission.
Last thought. Real quick. I've thought about the leaders I've been blessed to have in the church this past week. As I look back I realize the impact each one of them had on me, all of them playing a vital role. They were indeed called by God, my Bishops and young men's leaders thank you. This is a great work, this is the Lords work and I know he is with me!
Love your son, Baker!
Elder Pizzey
Howdie Folks!
Thank you for the emails! I really enjoyed both of them this week, as with every week. There is alot to share this week so let me just jump into it!
Last Thursday night Elder Dick and I get home at 9:00 PM and start planning for the following day. Friday, the next day, we were on an exchange and I was staying in the area so I was mainly planning by myself. We had a few open hours of the day and I haven't tracted for a few weeks (too busy) so I thought it would be a good idea to get out there and knock on some doors. Plus I like to do it and thought it would be a good idea to do some with this certain Elder I would be with. So I picked 2:30 and only for one hour, real short. I looked at our huge map on the wall and felt so inspired to throw my finger at the Draper Oaks Apartments (only 20 units or so) that we have never attempted. Well the following day E. Costa and I pulled up at 2:25 perfectly on time, said a prayer before we hopped out of the car and off we went. Here is the miracle. On the fourth door a lady opens the door and asks us, "Did my dad send you here?" The conversation went on and it turns out her fiance just moved in and she would be moving in with him in two weeks, after their wedding. She told me that she has been wanting to come back to church and her husband, who isn't a member, wants to get baptized! I was in shock... didn't even know what to say. Of course I gathered myself together pulled out my planner! I was truly guided by the spirit while planning and the Lord placed her in our path. Everything was to perfect to be luck!
On the weekend Elder Dick and I had a lesson with Sean Carnley. I love Sean, he is like a Darren Gardner with a mix of Austin Fairbanks, my two favorites. I will be coming back to snowboard with him for sure. Anyways our lesson! I can't describe it, so spiritual. We started to teach about the Plan of Salvation and we were using 2 Nephi 2 to help teach the Fall of Adam and Eve. We got into a great discussion and ended up "unfolding" 2 Nephi 2 to him! My favorite chapter. The spirit was very present as the discussion bounced around this chapter. It later moved into the joy that comes with sharing the gospel. We talked about our missions, he expressed a desire to serve a mission! Everyone in that lesson bore down in pure testimony, all of us! Sean (21 yrs old), Taylor (future missionary, so prepared), Luke (legit RM), Elder Dick and I. I am grateful for experiences like this, to work with so many people I love. Sean is getting baptized this Saturday at 6:00, he's so solid.
We had a Zone Leader Council this past Monday that was great, by the far the best one yet (they are from 9am-3pm... long). Stephen B. Allen just chastised our mission so we are working on some changes to become 100% obedient to the MHB (missionary handbook). Due to that I can't accept anymore visits from family or friends, sadly but that's OK less than a year left. Our two assistants right now are great, I love them. Elder Brand has been in there for ever and we need him! I think President is scared to let go of him, I would be too. Dad you should try to hire him, genius. Elder Bertilinio is just on it and I completely relate to him. Dream companion lol. At 1:00 they gave all the ZL companionship's a slip of paper with an address of a strip mall. We had one hour to get five referrals and it was so fun, such a race. They helped us understand the importance of goals and holding our self accountable to those goals. Lots of other things discussed but it was just great.
Once again some more revelation that happened during planning. Monday night Elder Dick and I planned to go by this girl Kara who we have been trying to get a hold of forever! She is less active but been thinking about coming back to church. We slowly gave up on her because we could never get a hold of her but Monday night we decided to put her down for 8:30, hoping she would be home. That time comes around and we roll by her house. For the first time ever shes home and she has a friend over from work. Long story short they invited us in (don't worry male home too) and we sit down and chatted for a few minutes. Kara's friend Sarah was really quiet and closed at first but eventually she opened up. She met with missionaries for six months almost a year ago and got really close to baptism. She broke up with her boyfriend, who was LDS, and things just fell apart. It turned into the greatest lesson of the week! Sarah is so honest with herself. She knows everything is true and misses it! Her words. She misses feeling close to God, misses praying and isn't pleased with her lifestyle at the time. She agreed it was time to change and start preparing for baptism! We were in shock, and never expected to meet Kara, meanwhile Sarah! The Lord knew our plans and placed them in our path. Planning is something I am slowly getting better and better at on my mission.
Last thought. Real quick. I've thought about the leaders I've been blessed to have in the church this past week. As I look back I realize the impact each one of them had on me, all of them playing a vital role. They were indeed called by God, my Bishops and young men's leaders thank you. This is a great work, this is the Lords work and I know he is with me!
Love your son, Baker!
Elder Pizzey
Thursday, March 10, 2011
March 9, 2010
March 9, 2011 - Week 5 of Transfer 9
Hello Hello!
Its good to hear from you! It actually feels like it has been awhile since I last wrote. Weird. So I had the same thought as you guys the past couple of weeks, that is "its time to do something about this weight". From some inspiring letters from Lindsay I decided to curb pop/soda for the rest of my mission! It has been almost two weeks and its not tough at all. I have also tried to stay away from all fast food and watch where we go to eat. My groceries have become alot healthier than a few weeks ago as well. Now 1% milk, bananas, fruit and 100% whole grain (basically bird seed) bread are the staples. Every once and a while fill up on healthy cereal or pure basic Quaker oatmeal. Elder Dick and I just renewed (if that makes sense) our goal to jog 1.5 miles every day. I almost died the first time... It felt like my gasps for air were scraping fat off my lungs causing blood to attempt to flying up my throat. Maybe a little to descriptive... But it should be good, we are real slow right now, around 17 minutes, but we will cut it down. This should be good, plus working out makes studies 10x as good.
I forget if I mentioned last email but, Stephen B. Allen (spoke to me in MTC) came to train the leadership of our mission this past Friday! He is the managing director of the missionary department of the church and he was unreal. He actually lives in our mission. I just loved everything he had to say. He gave it to us in "plainess" or without the sugar coat. Our mission this past month hit the lowest (110 approx.) it has ever been in six years as far as monthly baptisms goes. It used to range from 150-200 baptisms a month. He covered four main things that he determined we needed. He studied the statistics of the mission, shadowed the assistants for a day and met with President Miller also. I definitely learned alot. My favorite was when he talked about obedience. He told us, we think we are obedient but we aren't. We are MOSTLY obedient not exactly obedient and that won't cut it. Now President Miller has increased the obedience of this mission big time but we still aren't there. So it was great, my favorite part. Through out the entire meeting every time we received "revelation" or realized something we need to change he had us just quickly raise our hand and write it down. It was cool to see these hands just randomly pop up throughout the meeting, which was 6 hours long. Good stuff!
Now, alot of great things happened this week as well but here is something sad. We have been teaching Charles (28 years old) for the past four weeks and everything has been great! Going to church every week, in 2 Nephi 10 in his reading and hanging out with ward members on the weekend but we have not heard from him since Friday! He was suppose to get baptized this Sunday, and was excited about it, but nobody can get in touch with him. He just didn't show up for our lesson, church, won't answer the phone or door. Its pretty upsetting... I hope we figure out whats going on. That's missionary work for you though.
Although this past week Shelby Hackett did get baptized and it was great. It has been quite the experience to see the sudden change in her. From having no desire to change her lifestyle to not being able to wait to be baptized! It was like the flip of a switch, the Book of Mormon is powerful.
So the past two days (Monday and Tuesday) just may have been the most challenging days of my mission. Felt like an emotional roller coaster. There is a companionship in our zone who are really struggling, not between each other but in the work and keeping mission rules (nothing outrageous). I went with the new missionary, who's being trained, in his area and Elder Dick took the trainer in ours. Without sharing to much information the trainee was not to happy about the exchange. When we were starting he almost got physical with Elder Dick and for the first six hours! Of our 36 hour exchange he didn't say one word to me. After those six hours he apologized for everything and we were back to normal. There is a few other stories than just those six hours but no need to share. I don't think I've ever tracted an entire day on my mission yet but the Lord blessed us. We found a few potential investigators, found one solid one who we set up a new lesson with. We also gave there one and only investigator a baptismal date, which she accepted! At the end of the exchange we were having great time and he completely opened up with whats going on. Hopefully we can fix it. He has a great heart and he will be an excellent missionary, once properly trained. We finished with a hug and everything!
That is really my week, except this week we taught 25 lessons! Many great experiences within those lessons. I'm grateful for my area and glad I'm back with my companion. It didn't help it was snowing all day Monday and my right shoe on the big toe has a hole worn down to my sole so my foot was cold and soaking wet all day. I'm working on getting some new shoes once all the salt is cleaned up, I don't want to ruin the new ones. To be honest all I want to do is TRAIN! If I get a wish at the end of my mission it will be do to exactly as E. England did with me. White-wash train for my last two transfers... that would be my dream come true. OK I love you guys! Have a great week. Say hi to the two munchkins of the family and Jace the infant for me! Thank you, and you guys are the best!
Love Elder Pizzey
Hello Hello!
Its good to hear from you! It actually feels like it has been awhile since I last wrote. Weird. So I had the same thought as you guys the past couple of weeks, that is "its time to do something about this weight". From some inspiring letters from Lindsay I decided to curb pop/soda for the rest of my mission! It has been almost two weeks and its not tough at all. I have also tried to stay away from all fast food and watch where we go to eat. My groceries have become alot healthier than a few weeks ago as well. Now 1% milk, bananas, fruit and 100% whole grain (basically bird seed) bread are the staples. Every once and a while fill up on healthy cereal or pure basic Quaker oatmeal. Elder Dick and I just renewed (if that makes sense) our goal to jog 1.5 miles every day. I almost died the first time... It felt like my gasps for air were scraping fat off my lungs causing blood to attempt to flying up my throat. Maybe a little to descriptive... But it should be good, we are real slow right now, around 17 minutes, but we will cut it down. This should be good, plus working out makes studies 10x as good.
I forget if I mentioned last email but, Stephen B. Allen (spoke to me in MTC) came to train the leadership of our mission this past Friday! He is the managing director of the missionary department of the church and he was unreal. He actually lives in our mission. I just loved everything he had to say. He gave it to us in "plainess" or without the sugar coat. Our mission this past month hit the lowest (110 approx.) it has ever been in six years as far as monthly baptisms goes. It used to range from 150-200 baptisms a month. He covered four main things that he determined we needed. He studied the statistics of the mission, shadowed the assistants for a day and met with President Miller also. I definitely learned alot. My favorite was when he talked about obedience. He told us, we think we are obedient but we aren't. We are MOSTLY obedient not exactly obedient and that won't cut it. Now President Miller has increased the obedience of this mission big time but we still aren't there. So it was great, my favorite part. Through out the entire meeting every time we received "revelation" or realized something we need to change he had us just quickly raise our hand and write it down. It was cool to see these hands just randomly pop up throughout the meeting, which was 6 hours long. Good stuff!
Now, alot of great things happened this week as well but here is something sad. We have been teaching Charles (28 years old) for the past four weeks and everything has been great! Going to church every week, in 2 Nephi 10 in his reading and hanging out with ward members on the weekend but we have not heard from him since Friday! He was suppose to get baptized this Sunday, and was excited about it, but nobody can get in touch with him. He just didn't show up for our lesson, church, won't answer the phone or door. Its pretty upsetting... I hope we figure out whats going on. That's missionary work for you though.
Although this past week Shelby Hackett did get baptized and it was great. It has been quite the experience to see the sudden change in her. From having no desire to change her lifestyle to not being able to wait to be baptized! It was like the flip of a switch, the Book of Mormon is powerful.
So the past two days (Monday and Tuesday) just may have been the most challenging days of my mission. Felt like an emotional roller coaster. There is a companionship in our zone who are really struggling, not between each other but in the work and keeping mission rules (nothing outrageous). I went with the new missionary, who's being trained, in his area and Elder Dick took the trainer in ours. Without sharing to much information the trainee was not to happy about the exchange. When we were starting he almost got physical with Elder Dick and for the first six hours! Of our 36 hour exchange he didn't say one word to me. After those six hours he apologized for everything and we were back to normal. There is a few other stories than just those six hours but no need to share. I don't think I've ever tracted an entire day on my mission yet but the Lord blessed us. We found a few potential investigators, found one solid one who we set up a new lesson with. We also gave there one and only investigator a baptismal date, which she accepted! At the end of the exchange we were having great time and he completely opened up with whats going on. Hopefully we can fix it. He has a great heart and he will be an excellent missionary, once properly trained. We finished with a hug and everything!
That is really my week, except this week we taught 25 lessons! Many great experiences within those lessons. I'm grateful for my area and glad I'm back with my companion. It didn't help it was snowing all day Monday and my right shoe on the big toe has a hole worn down to my sole so my foot was cold and soaking wet all day. I'm working on getting some new shoes once all the salt is cleaned up, I don't want to ruin the new ones. To be honest all I want to do is TRAIN! If I get a wish at the end of my mission it will be do to exactly as E. England did with me. White-wash train for my last two transfers... that would be my dream come true. OK I love you guys! Have a great week. Say hi to the two munchkins of the family and Jace the infant for me! Thank you, and you guys are the best!
Love Elder Pizzey
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
March 2, 2011
March 2, 2011 - Week 4 of Transfer 9
So much happens in one week, at home and down here! Jace looks like a good kid, I think all babies look the same but I'm sure hes a cutey. He sounds like a big boy, probably will be the best baller in the family. Speaking of infants I had the greatest study this morning! Moroni 8, I dissected that chapter. Dad I'm glad your slowly becoming converted to the true way of life, Apple. I knew you would finally be able to see through the fog and find the right way. So I think Paige and Dad are the big sushi fans of the family, well add me on that list now. Elder Dick loves it and I've always been neutral but I'm sold now. All you can eat Sushi... so good.
For the first time ever I hit 21 lessons in one week! That's just lessons with members present too, not other lessons or RC/LA lessons (24 in total). Its not about the numbers of course but its nice to hit your goals. Thursday night we got a call from the Assistants telling us that someone from the MTC will shadowing us the next day, which was Friday. It was a good thing we had six lessons scheduled and a few new people we were planning on teaching that day. We were expecting some old guy and thought it would be really awkward but to our surprise Bro. Clay Johnson is 24 years old and only been home for three years. Hes now married and in charge of the teachers at the MTC. His purpose in coming to shadow us for the day wasn't to judge or give us correction but to learn for himself. So see how the new "simplified curriculum" is working in the field (he was involved in editing it). It was a little weird at first as we did our weekly planning, especially as we got the last step "companionship inventory". He just sat and observed, and same thing with our lessons. The entire day it was killing him because he isn't allowed to participate in the lesson just observe! He kept telling us he just wanted to be involved so bad! It was only his second time being a shadow for a day and the day prior the Elders had zero lessons so it was a long one. Anyways enough but it was an amazing day! Really spiritual and I learned alot.
Just as I thought I had the greatest day in my mission (I think this almost everyday) the next day gets better. Saturday I was able to go back to my old area for a baptism of a little guy I taught for awhile, his name is Justen Jordan. After that we taught for the first time ever a guy named Quang from Vietnam! There is a slight language barrier but the spirit some how takes it away. He is a really smart guy and one of the better math tutors here at SLCC, so he thinks everything out really hard. You can tell he is really listening to you when you speak... I have been sitting here for 2 minutes now trying to think of how I can describe Quang. How to describe the other people we are teaching and just how I feel about my mission right now. I can't. Its too hard. I have never seen so many people prepared by God to accept the restored Gospel. Everyone we are teaching is reading everyday! Pray constantly! Our investigators read the Book of Mormon more than we get to! They are flying through 2 Nephi, they want to come to church, they want to be baptized! I just don't get it... and I'm not just talking about one or two people, we are teaching nine people with baptismal dates! And a few others who are getting close. Sometimes I don't understand why we are so blessed and be the ones who are able to be teaching these people? I love these people, they are from all over the world and they teach me everyday.
Saturday was great. Michelle Totten's baptism went perfect, she had tons of people their to support. I'm grateful for the members of Utah and what they do to help us in this work. It couldn't get better. I honestly feel like this might be the peak of my mission. I get scared because it really can't get any better. I mean this Saturday I am going to the Draper Temple to see the Standing family be sealed! They are a young family (late 20s) with two kids. Bro. Standing never attended church since he was 9 and Sis. Standing never attended since she 17. She got caught up in the world but has recently returned and is loving her new life. I met them at their child's baby blessing and asked them if we could meet with them. I was able to teach them for a few months in my first area and had dinner with them last night. The Lords work feels good.
Our first week in the University 7th Stake I met this guy named Eric at the institute and have been able to get to know him. Every Friday at noon he goes to the weekly devotional and I always see him chilling at the institute, usually playing basketball. I have asked him probably five times to meet with us, several times to read the Book of Mormon and every time I see him I ask him to go onto momron.org. This past week he accepted my invitation to schedule a time to sit down and talk with us. It was actually on Friday with the Clay Johnson, the MTC guy. Imagine someone living in a pitch black room their entire life and one day someone flicks on a spot light and shines it at the person! Almost killing them its so bright! They can't look at it but the person is so curious so he finally starts to move towards it slowly. Well this was our first lesson with Eric. No joke, the spirit was so strong I think he almost passed out. He never felt anything like it before. We invited him to say the closing prayer and he accepted. I love when I am able to be with someone for the first time they ever pray! Usually, its so sincere and heart felt. Eric got pretty emotional during his prayer and I'm glad Elder Dick is comfortable with silence because the spirit taught him a few things during his first vocal prayer. I found a scripture that described this lesson later that day. Alma 5: 7, "they were in the midst of darkness; nevertheless, their souls were illuminated by the light of the everlasting word" I love it! Eric's eyes are starting to adopt to the light (he is recognizing the spirit, this strange light).
I have several stories from this past week. A few with investigators had the similar experience. They come to our lesson with a scripture they found in their studies that was "their" answer to their prayers. Its amazing the power of the word, it does so much more than what we can do. My favorite was Adriana's this past week. 2 Nephi 9:40, that scripture converted her basically. She is now being baptized on March 18th due to the experience she had with that scripture. I love these people we are teaching!
Last story. We started teaching Katelyn Schertz yesterday. I actually met her while I was with Kensey at church. It just happens to be that I sat down beside her in class and she was actually hoping to find the missionaries that day! Never have I seen anyone so prepared. She got a Book of Mormon on Friday and is in 1 Nephi 17. All I will say, to keep this short, the lesson was excellent. We asked her to say the closing prayer and in her prayer she said, "thank you for allowing me to meet with YOUR missionaries." Did you catch that? Your missionaries... I've had members say similar things but someone your teaching! It almost brought me to tears. I love serving as a representative of Jesus Christ.
Love your son, Elder Pizzey.
So much happens in one week, at home and down here! Jace looks like a good kid, I think all babies look the same but I'm sure hes a cutey. He sounds like a big boy, probably will be the best baller in the family. Speaking of infants I had the greatest study this morning! Moroni 8, I dissected that chapter. Dad I'm glad your slowly becoming converted to the true way of life, Apple. I knew you would finally be able to see through the fog and find the right way. So I think Paige and Dad are the big sushi fans of the family, well add me on that list now. Elder Dick loves it and I've always been neutral but I'm sold now. All you can eat Sushi... so good.
For the first time ever I hit 21 lessons in one week! That's just lessons with members present too, not other lessons or RC/LA lessons (24 in total). Its not about the numbers of course but its nice to hit your goals. Thursday night we got a call from the Assistants telling us that someone from the MTC will shadowing us the next day, which was Friday. It was a good thing we had six lessons scheduled and a few new people we were planning on teaching that day. We were expecting some old guy and thought it would be really awkward but to our surprise Bro. Clay Johnson is 24 years old and only been home for three years. Hes now married and in charge of the teachers at the MTC. His purpose in coming to shadow us for the day wasn't to judge or give us correction but to learn for himself. So see how the new "simplified curriculum" is working in the field (he was involved in editing it). It was a little weird at first as we did our weekly planning, especially as we got the last step "companionship inventory". He just sat and observed, and same thing with our lessons. The entire day it was killing him because he isn't allowed to participate in the lesson just observe! He kept telling us he just wanted to be involved so bad! It was only his second time being a shadow for a day and the day prior the Elders had zero lessons so it was a long one. Anyways enough but it was an amazing day! Really spiritual and I learned alot.
Just as I thought I had the greatest day in my mission (I think this almost everyday) the next day gets better. Saturday I was able to go back to my old area for a baptism of a little guy I taught for awhile, his name is Justen Jordan. After that we taught for the first time ever a guy named Quang from Vietnam! There is a slight language barrier but the spirit some how takes it away. He is a really smart guy and one of the better math tutors here at SLCC, so he thinks everything out really hard. You can tell he is really listening to you when you speak... I have been sitting here for 2 minutes now trying to think of how I can describe Quang. How to describe the other people we are teaching and just how I feel about my mission right now. I can't. Its too hard. I have never seen so many people prepared by God to accept the restored Gospel. Everyone we are teaching is reading everyday! Pray constantly! Our investigators read the Book of Mormon more than we get to! They are flying through 2 Nephi, they want to come to church, they want to be baptized! I just don't get it... and I'm not just talking about one or two people, we are teaching nine people with baptismal dates! And a few others who are getting close. Sometimes I don't understand why we are so blessed and be the ones who are able to be teaching these people? I love these people, they are from all over the world and they teach me everyday.
Saturday was great. Michelle Totten's baptism went perfect, she had tons of people their to support. I'm grateful for the members of Utah and what they do to help us in this work. It couldn't get better. I honestly feel like this might be the peak of my mission. I get scared because it really can't get any better. I mean this Saturday I am going to the Draper Temple to see the Standing family be sealed! They are a young family (late 20s) with two kids. Bro. Standing never attended church since he was 9 and Sis. Standing never attended since she 17. She got caught up in the world but has recently returned and is loving her new life. I met them at their child's baby blessing and asked them if we could meet with them. I was able to teach them for a few months in my first area and had dinner with them last night. The Lords work feels good.
Our first week in the University 7th Stake I met this guy named Eric at the institute and have been able to get to know him. Every Friday at noon he goes to the weekly devotional and I always see him chilling at the institute, usually playing basketball. I have asked him probably five times to meet with us, several times to read the Book of Mormon and every time I see him I ask him to go onto momron.org. This past week he accepted my invitation to schedule a time to sit down and talk with us. It was actually on Friday with the Clay Johnson, the MTC guy. Imagine someone living in a pitch black room their entire life and one day someone flicks on a spot light and shines it at the person! Almost killing them its so bright! They can't look at it but the person is so curious so he finally starts to move towards it slowly. Well this was our first lesson with Eric. No joke, the spirit was so strong I think he almost passed out. He never felt anything like it before. We invited him to say the closing prayer and he accepted. I love when I am able to be with someone for the first time they ever pray! Usually, its so sincere and heart felt. Eric got pretty emotional during his prayer and I'm glad Elder Dick is comfortable with silence because the spirit taught him a few things during his first vocal prayer. I found a scripture that described this lesson later that day. Alma 5: 7, "they were in the midst of darkness; nevertheless, their souls were illuminated by the light of the everlasting word" I love it! Eric's eyes are starting to adopt to the light (he is recognizing the spirit, this strange light).
I have several stories from this past week. A few with investigators had the similar experience. They come to our lesson with a scripture they found in their studies that was "their" answer to their prayers. Its amazing the power of the word, it does so much more than what we can do. My favorite was Adriana's this past week. 2 Nephi 9:40, that scripture converted her basically. She is now being baptized on March 18th due to the experience she had with that scripture. I love these people we are teaching!
Last story. We started teaching Katelyn Schertz yesterday. I actually met her while I was with Kensey at church. It just happens to be that I sat down beside her in class and she was actually hoping to find the missionaries that day! Never have I seen anyone so prepared. She got a Book of Mormon on Friday and is in 1 Nephi 17. All I will say, to keep this short, the lesson was excellent. We asked her to say the closing prayer and in her prayer she said, "thank you for allowing me to meet with YOUR missionaries." Did you catch that? Your missionaries... I've had members say similar things but someone your teaching! It almost brought me to tears. I love serving as a representative of Jesus Christ.
Love your son, Elder Pizzey.
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